Write-in the season: Reflections to welcome Autumn

What will you harvest this season?

Putting pen to paper can be a useful way to process our thoughts - both a call to action and permission to take time out. For many, the word ‘journaling’ suggests the discipline of daily diaries.  A gentler introduction to this way to wellbeing can be to journal as the seasons change. Here at Sanguine Therapy I encourage clients to journal when they are stuck or wanting to find new ways to express themselves and their hopes and dreams. It can be particularly helpful for people with stress and anxiety who want to feel more hopeful about the future or for people who are finding it difficult to find positive stories from their recent past. We can then work with their words as we go about exploring the many techniques that Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy (Hypno-CBT®️) can offer through the therapeutic journey. I was lucky enough to host an online workshop recently where we shared insights on the following prompts.  If you are new to journaling I hope they help you move forward from late summer into early autumn:

-          What will you bring forth from the season past?  What lessons did you learn from the summer and how can you carry them into autumn?  What was positive for you and what harvest can you celebrate - qualities from the summer and memories.

-          What do you need to find balance as we move forward from the Autumn Equinox?  Where do you feel in balance in your life?  What would help you find more balance – do you need more rest, relaxation, time in nature, with friends or alone as you move into the next season?

-          What do you intend to cultivate for the season ahead?  What do you want to prioritise?  Is there a new habit or routine you would like to begin?  Are there words that will help you reflect on where you want to grow personally?

Embrace the cycle of the season as an opportunity to reset. Try using the written word to explore the patterns and stories that you are ready to shed so you can make room for new growth; you may be surprised at what putting pen to paper prompts you to reveal.